Pre Sales Field Engineer, Security and Fire

Build your best future with the Johnson Controls teamAs a global leader in smart, healthy and sustainable buildings, our mission is to reimagine the performance of buildings to serve people, places and the planet.  Join a winning team that enables you to build your best future! Our teams are uniquely positioned to support a multitude of industries across the globe. You will have the opportunity to develop yourself through meaningful work projects and learning opportunities. We strive to provide our employees with an experience, focused on supporting their physical, financial, and emotional wellbeing. Become a member of the Johnson Controls family and thrive in an empowering company culture where your voice and ideas will be heard – your next great opportunity is just a few clicks away!What we offerCompetitive salary and commission / bonus planPaid vacation/holidays/sick time - 15 days of vacation first yearComprehensive benefits package including 401K, medical, dental, and vision care - Available day oneExtensive product and on the job/cross training opportunities With outstanding resourcesEncouraging and collaborative team environmentDedication to safety through our Zero Harm policyCompany vehicleWhat you will do The BSSE Pre‑Sales Field Engineer (Security & Fire) is responsible for performing detailed site surveys, analyzing technical and environmental conditions, and developing accurate assessments and budgetary estimates for security and fire system installations and other duties as assigned. This role requires strong technical acumen, field‑survey expertise, and the ability to translate real‑world site conditions into actionable engineering and cost recommendations. The BSSE Pre‑Sales Field Engineer (Security & Fire) works closely with Sales, Pre‑Sales Engineering, and Operations teams to ensure proposed solutions are feasible, compliant, and aligned with customer expectations. This role will cover Chicago/Northern Illinois and Wisconsin.How you will do itSite Survey ExecutionConduct comprehensive on‑site evaluations to assess entry points, perimeter conditions, building layouts, and potential vulnerabilities.Identify and document all system components, device locations, and installation considerations relevant to the project scope.Evaluate the site for risk conditions, code compliance requirements, and upgrade opportunities.Performs on‑site surveys: Provides professional site assessments so sellers receive reliable information early in the sales cycle.Technical Tool ProficiencyUse measuring tools such as laser distance meters and tape measures to capture accurate dimensions.Create or update digital floor plans using mobile applications such as ArcSite.Capture detailed photos and field notes documenting devices, infrastructure, and installation barriers.Data Analysis & System RecommendationsGather, organize, and analyze all data from field surveys including floor plans, device counts, and environmental/structural limitations.Identify system improvements, recommend device placement or technology substitutions, and highlight installation‑related challenges.Contribute to solution design with an emphasis on accuracy, constructability, and adherence to company standards.Estimating & Pre‑Sales SupportDevelop accurate estimates based on survey findings, system requirements, and installation complexity.Support Sales and Engineering throughout the pre‑bid cycle by validating scope, assumptions, and required labor/materials.Attend and participate in joint sales callsBuilds estimates and design deliverables: Creates fire and security estimates, designs, scopes of work (SOWs), BOMs, and other documents needed for proposals.Supports restricted and government accounts: Qualified to conduct surveys and build estimates for sensitive or restricted customer sites.Documentation & Technical DeliverablesPrepare complete deliverables including device inventories, floor plans, survey forms, vulnerability assessments, photographs, and written reports.Document installation considerations, integration needs, and code‑driven requirements thoroughly.Produces drawings and technical documents: Develops shop drawings, designs, SOWs, and critical pre‑bid documents to support proposals.Subcontractor & Vendor RelationshipsMaintain awareness of local regulations, subcontractor availability, and installation best practices.Maintains subcontractor relationships when required: Keeps active connections with local subcontractors and understands core security products to support smooth estimating and project execution.Communication & CollaborationCommunicate findings effectively with Sales, Operations, and Engineering stakeholders.Engage directly with customers to clarify scope, gather missing information, and set expectations.Work cross‑functionally to guide projects from survey through proposal development.Establish a collaboration channel with FDEs, HLEs, and PODsAct as a mentor and coach through the Ambassador and BEST programs and conduct ongoing sales value‑add training sessions.Problem Solving & Professional AttributesIdentify out‑of‑scope or high‑risk conditions and escalate appropriately.Adapt to various methods for obtaining missing documentation (e.g., as‑builts, digital scans).Demonstrate high attention to detail, accuracy, and adherence to timelines.Proactively stay current with product updates, technical standards, and industry best practices.What we look for Required:3–5 years of experience in site surveying, system estimating, or installation of security/fire systems.Strong knowledge of fire alarm and security systems including sensors, control panels, access control, and detection devices.Proficiency with mobile CAD tools (e.g., ArcSite) and measurement devices.Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.Strong analytical and problem‑solving ability.Ability to work independently and as part of a team.High attention to detail with a proactive compliance‑focused mindset.Basic Fire Alarm installation kn